There are many different career paths within the logistics industry, one suited to each type of person.
From logistics manager working with technology like transport management software to supply chain analyst, the variety of roles surrounding the transportation of goods is considerable. In this guide, we take a look at some of the skills that might be helpful for anyone considering a career in logistics, and some of the different roles that you might find yourself in.
Skills
For this section, we spoke to the Joloda Hydraroll team to outline the main skills required for a logistics career. And, there are certain skills that are necessary to go far in the field. These include:
Problem-solving
Logistics is essentially about finding solutions to complex problems. Things will undoubtedly go wrong, and solutions have to be found in very short time frames. This might be finding an alternative route through back streets, a route that won’t block a large load, or any number of other creative problems. You’ll need to be able to think on your feet, and make accurate, snap decisions at the drop of a hat.
Communication
Being a good communicator is absolutely imperative for most positions in logistics, especially for project coordinators. You’ll be in constant contact with suppliers, clients, and drivers, having to coordinate responses to issues as they pop up and keep people in the loop. Staying calm and consistent under pressure will be a must, and pressure will likely be significant at times.
Analytical
Working in logistics requires that you’re able to visualise different elements of the supply chain, optimising each element before a problem can occur. These will often be problems on an international scale, which have become increasingly complex with the recent rise of political issues. An appreciation of the current geopolitical climate will be highly beneficial, allowing for precautions to be taken in good time.
Roles
There are several main administerial roles in logistics:
Logistics coordinator
As a logistics coordinator, you will be responsible for the creation and management of logistics plans. As a central figure in the process, you’ll need to be excellent at maintaining relationships and putting all the pieces of the logistics puzzle together, from negotiating the best rates for your clients to making sure that everything runs on schedule.
Supply chain analyst
A supply chain analyst plays a key role in the logistics process. They’re responsible for identifying potential hold-ups in the supply chain, and for making suggestions about potential improvements. As we’ve seen with supply chain disruptions over the past couple of years, this is an intricately complex role, which requires an appreciation of a broad variety of contributing factors.
Warehouse manager
Warehouses are at the heart of the logistics process, and the warehouse manager is responsible for the organisation and distribution of the products stored there. They need to ensure maximum efficiency, with a low error margin. Attention to detail and effective, hands-on team management in a high-stress environment is a must.
